Galaxy forwards expect to lead the charge to crack Metapán defense

CARSON, Calif. -- For MLS clubs in the CONCACAF Champions League, dealing with highly defensive opponents is part of the game and the LA Galaxy expect it to be no different when they host Salvadoran club Isidro Metapán on Thursday at The Home Depot Center.

Although Metapán are considered to be one of the most dynamic offensive clubs in their native land, even the most offensive clubs often opt for a defense first approach or "bunkering" when playing in MLS or Mexican opposition in CCL play. Expected to drop as many as ten players back, the Salvadorans will likely look to clog the midfield and limit the Galaxy from creating scoring chances due to their added numbers in the back. This approach places the onus on forwards Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane as well as the Galaxy midfield to break a group that is expected to be highly compact and organized in front of goal.

Below are thoughts from Keane and Donovan on facing a Metapán side expected to be highly defensive on Thursday:

KEANE: "I certainly think that probably will be the case tomorrow, but its a good test for the players, because we're going to come up against teams like that also in the league. It's good that we know how to deal with that, how to break teams down."

DONOVAN: "That would be the expectation. If that changes, we will be surprised I think, but we deal with that a lot here and having to break teams down, and tomorrow will be the same."